What's eating my waras' parodia?

Waras' Parodia (Parodia warasii) is a slow-growing South American globe cactus susceptible to mealybugs hiding between ribs and in the woolly apex, and to root mealybugs in the soil. Scale and spider mites are secondary threats. Good air circulation and avoiding overwatering are the primary preventive measures for this houseplant.

Cottony white clusters at rib intersections and around the apical wool; stunted, discolored growth. Swab affected areas with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spray neem oil solution over the whole plant; repeat every 7–10 days until clear.

Hidden in root zone; plant wilts despite adequate watering, roots show white waxy coating. Unpot, wash roots, let dry, then repot in fresh sterile cactus mix. Drench soil with systemic insecticide if reinfestation occurs.

Hard brown discs fixed to the cactus body; yellowing around attachment points. Remove manually with a toothpick or alcohol swab. Follow up with a neem oil spray to prevent re-establishment.